The team announced Tuesday it has mutually agreed to part ways with Ireland, who had been a controversial figure since being named GM in 2008.

"I've spent the last six years with the best organization in football," Ireland said in a statement issued by the team. "(Dolphins owner Stephen Ross) and I came to an agreement that the best thing moving forward for all parties would be to part ways. I'd like to thank Steve for all his support and kindness. I've had the opportunity to work with some of the most amazing people during this time and I'd like to thank them all from the bottom of my heart. "

Ireland had been a scout with the Dallas Cowboys before following Bill Parcells to Miami and took over full control of the operation when Parcells stepped down in September 2010.

The Dolphins haven't been to the playoffs since 2008, finishing 7-9, 7-9, 6-10, 7-9 and 8-8 since. They needed to win one of their final two games to make the postseason this season but lost to the Buffalo Bills and New York Jets.

That cost offensive coordinator Mike Sherman his job Monday and surely contributed to Ireland's ouster a day later.

It was a tumultuous season for the Dolphins marked by an NFL-backed investigation into issues of workplace conduct after the departure of tackle Jonathan Martin and subsequent suspension of guard Richie Incognito.

"I want to personally thank Jeff for his hard work and dedication in building the team over the past six years," Ross said in a statement issued by the team. "After a series of discussions, we both felt that it was in our mutual best interest to part ways. Jeff was a loyal and dedicated member of the Dolphins and we wish him and his family nothing but the best."